Miami Hurricanes Win 31-27, Advance to 2026 College Football Playoff
Miami Advances to National championship after Fiesta Bowl Thriller
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) – Carson Beck’s 3-yard touchdown scramble with 18 seconds remaining propelled miami to a 31-27 victory over Mississippi in a thrilling College Football Playoff semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday night. The win sends the Hurricanes home to South Florida with a chance to win their first national championship since 2001.
“We never flinched,” Beck said, after throwing for 268 yards and two touchdowns with one interception.”In the face of adversity, when we had to respond, we responded.”
The 10th-ranked Hurricanes (13-2) earned a controversial spot in the CFP – at least outside of South Florida – but proved their worth. They will face either top-ranked Indiana or No. 5 Oregon in the national title game on Jan. 19.
Miami reached the CFP semifinals by holding Texas A&M and reigning national champion Ohio State to a combined 17 points. They then contained the high-scoring Rebels (13-2) for three quarters before a frantic fourth-quarter finish.
Malachi Toney’s 36-yard touchdown reception on a screen pass gave Miami a 24-19 lead.
Mississippi responded with a drive led by Trinidad chambliss, who connected with Dae’Quan Wright for a 24-yard touchdown with 3:13 left.
Beck then orchestrated the game-winning drive for Miami.
